Newstar News

How to Protect Your Tile Floor From Cracks

From: Date:4/27/2017

Tile flooring is one of the
most beautiful and versatile types of flooring. However, tile floor can also be
vulnerable to cracking if placed or maintained improperly. Below nine
steps you can take before, during, and after installation to prevent cracks.

1. Reinforce the Foundation

Tiles most often crack due to
small shifts in placement. If possible, minimize this shifting by ensuring a strong
foundation. During the construction of your home or building, use a
supplemental fiber mix in the concrete or reinforce the foundation with steel
bars. If you're moving into a finished home or building, learn what you
can about the foundation from the builder or previous owner to determine
whether the foundation can support a tile floor.

2. Choose a High-Quality
Subfloor

Before you lay any tile, you
put down a subfloor or underlayment. The best subfloors are strong and completely
flat. If your subfloor curves or bends, it can weaken the grout, individual
tiles, and finishing sealant. Most experts recommend using two layers of
subfloor materials, such as plywood, that overlap so that no two seams line up
and create a vulnerable fault line in the finished floor.

3. Prepare Your Subfloor Thoroughly

Once you lay your subfloor,
clean the surface thoroughly to ensure your mortar adheres and hardens correctly.
Start by sweeping away large debris and vacuuming up smaller particles. Then,
mop the subfloor with mineral spirits or another solvent to clear away any
grease or oils that could interact with the mortar.

4. Consider Using an Isolation
Membrane

For extra protection, consider
laying an isolation membrane between your subfloor and your tile. This thin extra
layer absorbs most movement that occurs in the foundation or subfloor to
minimize the effect on your tile. Apply the isolation like paint and allow it
to set completely before you begin tiling.

5. Choose Your Best Tile
Material

If you have concerns with any
component underneath your tiles themselves, consider opting for a stronger tile
to offset the risk of cracks. Porcelain tiles are generally the most
crack-resistant option. Consider glazed ceramic and natural stone options as
well. Consult with a tile expert to ensure you choose your best tile material.

6. Apply Mortar Evenly and
Consistently

When you begin the tiling
process, pay careful attention to the manufacturer's directions. Apply the mortar
evenly and allow it to harden as instructed before placing your tiles. This
step ensures that your tiles bond securely to the subfloor and experience less
shifting. If you cannot confidently apply the mortar or lay the tiles, hire a
professional for this portion of the installation.

7. Apply Grout According to
Instructions

As with mortar, you must apply
grout according to the manufacturer's instructions to bind the tiles securely.
Mix your grout using the exact measurements provided, and pack grout into the
spaces between tiles. If your grout does not completely fill the lines between
tiles, moisture may seep into the space and wear down the adhesion of your
mortar.

8. Seal the Tile and Grout

Once you complete
installation, apply a sealant to reduce the risk of moisture intrusion. This
sealant fills the pores in the tile and grout surfaces to keep spilled liquid,
tracked-in mud, and precipitation out. For added protection, consider applying
multiple coats of sealant before using your tile floor.

9. Minimize Impact Incidents

Once you complete your tile
floor, take precautions to protect your tiles during daily use. Avoid carrying heavy
objects over your tile floor and set rules for household play to reduce the
impact your tile regularly withstands. Take these steps and rely on the
expertise of a tile supplier to ensure your tile floor stays beautiful for its
entire lifetime. Ready to install your dream flooring? Consult with Tile Outlet
to find the right tile type for your style preferences, home architecture, and
budget.